The RoleReporting to the Wilson College Internal Governing Board, the inaugural Director of the Futures Institute at Wilson College will provide overall strategic and operational leadership for the Futures Institute, in close partnership with the Board and the Wilson College Academic Director. The Director will be accountable for advancing the Institute’s mission, setting strategic priorities, and ensuring effective delivery of high-impact student programming.The Director will oversee all aspects of the Institute’s operations, including program planning and execution, financial stewardship, funding compliance and reporting, and leadership of a small, unionized and non-unionized staff complement. The role includes responsibility for establishing work plans, performance objectives, and organizational priorities, and for cultivating strong relationships with internal and external constituents.In partnership with the College’s Academic Director and faculty colleagues, the Director will support the development of new academic and co‑curricular initiatives, including a proposed concurrent certificate in Futures Thinking and Social Innovation.Working collaboratively within Wilson College and across the University, the Director will identify and advance initiatives, partnerships, and learning opportunities that enhance the Institute’s reach, relevance, and reputation. The role will also oversee the annual Future of Canada symposium, host distinguished guests at McMaster, and collaborate with the College’s External Director to expand student opportunities and strengthen Wilson College’s public profile.The Director is a champion for the Institute, Wilson College, and the University while also being responsible for advancing excellence in academic and non‑academic activities, and the creative development, delivery,



and ongoing quality review of innovative programs and initiatives within the Institute.Ideal Candidate ProfileThe ideal candidate for the inaugural Director, Futures Institute role will bring both an entrepreneurial and creative mindset in combination with leadership experience and proficiency in future‑thinking theory and practice. They must have in‑depth knowledge of future‑thinking theory and practice, outstanding communication and relationship building skills, and be a visionary leader who can disseminate their knowledge across all program areas. A strong networker with a proven ability to apply a futurist perspective to real‑world challenges and to build relationships across diverse groups is essential. They should be highly creative, innovative, entrepreneurial, and enjoy working across disciplines and sectors.Experience and QualificationsMaster’s degree in a relevant discipline; a PhD or degree in Humanities or Social Sciences is an asset.Experience working in the domain of future‑thinking theory and practice and a demonstrated interest in civic‑focused activities.Experience applying strategic foresight and future‑thinking methodologies such as horizon scanning, trend analysis, scenario planning, and backcasting within complex organizational contexts in the public, private, and/or third sectors,



preferably in public or mission‑driven environments.Demonstrated success in building and growing relationships across diverse groups.A track record of conceiving and executing high‑impact projects and events that engage a broad cross‑section of constituents; experience securing funding for such projects and events is an asset.Experience developing and managing a budget.Experience working in a complex multi‑constituent institution or organization.Excellent leadership, oral and written communication, and presentation skills.Experience in the post‑secondary sector is an asset.Experience teaching or lecturing is an asset.Salary RangeThe hiring range for this role is expected to be $100,000-150,000. This range is provisional as the position is new and currently undergoing job evaluation. Successful candidates with significant depth of experience and demonstrated impact may be considered near the upper end of the range.Employment Equity and InclusionMcMaster University strives to embody the values of respect, collaboration and diversity, and has a strong commitment to employment equity. The University seeks qualified candidates who share this commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. While all qualified candidates are invited to apply, McMaster particularly welcomes applications from women, persons with disabilities, First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples, members of racialized communities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ persons.As part of McMaster’s commitment, all applicants are invited to complete a confidential Applicant Diversity Survey as part of the application submission process. The survey will be provided at the time of application. Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. McMaster University and KBRS will provide support in the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities, including accommodations that account for an applicant’s accessibility needs. If you require accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please contact [email protected].#J-18808-Ljbffr

📌 Director, Futures Institute At Wilson College - C$100,000 - C$150,000 A Year (Winnipeg)
🏢 Wilson College
📍 Winnipeg